Say Hello

Each week I will issue a challenge to you to do something to make a positive difference in the lives of those around you, in the place around you, wherever you are.

This challenge is for me, too. Because I forget to make sure to be aware of those around me. To see them. To smile or nod.

But I don’t want to forget. I want to make a difference. I want to live on purpose.

Unfortunately, I’ve been the one in the forever long check out line at the store, staring blankly at the air, unaware of those around me. Not thinking about the elderly lady behind me or the mom with 2 restless toddlers in her cart whining to go home. Not smiling, not saying anything. Just there. Missing an opportunity to do something kind or good. Even if it’s just to say, “Hello, how are you?”

And that’s the challenge this week. SAY HELLO to five strangers. Look them straight in the eyes and say hello. Make sure you’re smiling, too. It may feel strange at first and the stranger may think you’re weird and not respond. That’s fine. You tried.

Try again. Then again. And again. See what happens?

I bet you end up having a nice conversation with one of those strangers this week. I bet you make someone’s day just by smiling and speaking.

Because when you acknowledge someone, you’re telling them they matter.

I do this all the time and people’s responses are so varied. If I give them a simple “Hello” over 95% will respond in kind. But if I say “Hi!” There often seems to be a slight hesitation. As if I have a hidden meaning they need to decipher. Am I about to put us in an awkward situation? Should they recognize me? They linger to see what’s next and they wonder what is behind this happy face.

Interesting. If I say “hey” I get the same response….as if they should know me or something. I think a “hey” is generally understood to be used for those we know and “hello” is reserved for new acquaintances. As long as we’re saying something it’s a good thing.

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